Locksmiths and Safe Repairers

What the job really is

Repair and open locks, make keys, change locks and safe combinations, and install and repair safes.

At a glance

• Sector: Installation, Maintenance & Repair
• O*NET-SOC code: 49-9094
• O*NET job zone: 2 — some preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• Cut new or duplicate keys, using impressions or code key machines.
• Insert new or repaired tumblers into locks to change combinations.
• Move picklocks in cylinders to open door locks without keys.
• Cut new or duplicate keys, using key cutting machines.
• Open safe locks by drilling.
• Set up and maintain master key systems.
• Install door hardware, such as locks and closers.
• Keep records of company locks and keys.
• Disassemble mechanical or electrical locking devices, and repair or replace worn tumblers, springs, and other parts, using hand tools.
• Repair and adjust safes, vault doors, and vault components, using hand tools, lathes, drill presses, and welding and acetylene cutting apparatus.
• Install alarm and electronic access systems.
• Install safes, vault doors, and deposit boxes according to blueprints, using equipment such as power drills, taps, dies, truck cranes, and dollies.

Tools and technology

Intuit QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Word, Acetylene torches, Automatic metal lathes, Bench drill presses, Bent needlenose pliers, Borescopes, Carpenters squares

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Mechanical Door Repairers
• Helpers--Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers
• Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers
• Helpers--Electricians
• Millwrights
• Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers
• Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers
• Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 2 (some preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

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Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Locksmiths and Safe Repairers — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.